If you’ve seen the Portland Thorns in the headlines the past few weeks, that should not come as a surprise.
It has been 19 days since the former U.S. Attorney General Sally Yates released her scathing report that shocked the soccer world.
Here is the full PDF link to the report.
Due to the findings, Merritt Paulson has stepped away from his role as CEO of both the Portland Thorns and Timbers.
The clubs’ President of Soccer (Gavin Wilkinson) and President of Business (Mike Golub) have also been relieved of their duties.
President of Soccer Gavin Wilkinson and President of Business Mike Golub relieved of their duties
— X – Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) October 5, 2022
Numerous sponsors have ended their relationship with the clubs. At this point only few remain.
There is mounting pressure from fans, and media for Paulson and Peregrine Sports to sell the teams.
In the team’s first media availability since the report, Head Coach Rhian Wilkinson and Captain Christine Sinclair shared their thoughts on the investigation and the front office.
Wilkinson reiterated that she would like to wait for the NWSL and NWSLPA joint investigation report before commenting fully.
In response to whether the players are ready to respond to the report, “They’re not there yet. I’m not there yet. Some are, some aren’t.”
Some players have formed opinions on how they’d like the club and league to move forward; however, many need more time to do so. “They’re not sure. They don’t know. Some of them are sure and very clear where they stand on many topics, but some of them aren’t and can’t say that,” Wilkinson said.
— Rhian Wilkinson (@rhirhi8) October 6, 2022
Sinclair was asked whether or not Paulson should sell the teams. She is still processing the situation and asked for more time.
“Look, I’ve been a part of this team, proudly, for 10 years. I’ve seen significant changes being made this past year, changes for the better. Those players were forced to answer questions minute one of the Yates report coming out, which is kind of unfair for an athlete to be faced with. So for me, I’m focusing on the playoffs and focusing on getting ready for San Diego. For a lot of players, it’s going to take a lot of time to get to that decision. Whatever that is. It’s an individual decision, but it’s going to take time.”
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